Hiring a contractor to build, remodel, or repair your property is a big investment. Whether you’re constructing a new home in Sevierville, renovating a rental property in Gatlinburg, or expanding a business in Morristown, you expect the work to be completed on time and to the standard agreed upon. Unfortunately, contractors sometimes fail to deliver. When delays, poor workmanship, or broken promises occur, you may wonder: can I sue my contractor?
At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville, we represent property owners across Middle and East Tennessee—including Pigeon Forge, Dandridge, Jefferson City, Newport, Maryville, Townsend, Nashville, and beyond who find themselves in disputes with contractors.
Common Causes of Contractor Delays
Not every construction delay is grounds for a lawsuit. Some setbacks are beyond the contractor’s control, such as:
- Severe weather or natural disasters
- Supply shortages or shipping delays
- Scheduling conflicts with subcontractors
However, other delays may be considered inexcusable and could form the basis of a legal claim. These include:
- A contractor consistently failing to show up to the job site
- Poor project management or overbooking workers
- Budget mismanagement or inaccurate cost estimates
- Negligence in ordering supplies or coordinating subcontractors
When Can You Sue a Contractor in Tennessee?
You may be able to file a lawsuit if a contractor’s negligence or intentional conduct caused significant delays or damages. Common legal grounds include:
- Breach of Contract – If the contractor fails to complete work by agreed deadlines without a valid excuse.
- Violation of a Liquidated Damages Clause – Many contracts include a per-day penalty for going past the completion date.
- Negligence or Fraud – If the contractor acted dishonestly, misused funds, or failed to meet industry standards.
Keep in mind that if you caused the delay—such as by failing to make the property available, withholding payments, or changing project details then the contractor could attempt to sue you for losses.
Types of Damages You May Recover
If your contractor is at fault for delays or other failures, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Lost Productivity – Especially for business owners who couldn’t use the property as planned.
- Demobilization Costs – Extra expenses for moving crews, supplies, and equipment.
- Equipment Rental Fees – Additional charges from extended use of construction machinery.
- Storage or Relocation Costs – Extra housing or business location expenses while work is delayed.
- Increased Material Costs – If prices rise during the delay period.
How to Protect Yourself
To strengthen your case, always:
- Keep a detailed contract that includes timelines, payment terms, and delay provisions.
- Document everything including photos, emails, and receipts.
- Act promptly if you notice red flags, rather than waiting until the project collapses.
How Champagne Law Firm Can Help
Contractor disputes are stressful and often expensive. At Champagne Law Firm, we understand the construction landscape in Sevier County and throughout Middle and East Tennessee. We work with property owners to:
- Evaluate contracts and project records
- Negotiate with contractors for fair resolution
- Pursue breach of contract or negligence claims in court when necessary
With offices in Nashville, Sevierville, and Rogersville, our firm is positioned to help clients across Tennessee, from Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to Nashville, Maryville, Townsend, and Jefferson City.
Final Thoughts
Not every construction delay is lawsuit-worthy, but when your contractor’s negligence or poor management costs you time and money, legal remedies may be available. The Board for Licensing Contractors was established in 1931 to regulate contractors in the State of Tennessee. The current requirements for the licensure of contractors, home improvement contractors, limited licensed electricians, and limited licensed plumbers can be found in Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 62, Chapter 6. For more on contractor licensing visit the website for the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance.
If you’re dealing with a contractor dispute in Sevier County or the surrounding communities, Champagne Law Firm is here to protect your investment and pursue the outcome you deserve.
